FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about something? We have you covered. Most things our guests inquire about are covered in our frequently asked questions below. If we haven’t answered your question here, we are always happy to address any concerns you may have. Please contact us.
General Questions
Minimum age to rent and drive is 26 with a valid driver’s license. However, licensed drivers between 18 to 25 years old are allowed to drive only if they are accompanied by their parent in the same vehicle at the same time (no exceptions).
In order to be a passenger you must be able to sit in the seat, with your feet flat on the floor, back against the seat and your hands firmly on the hand hold. While we do not enforce a strict height requirement, typically if an individual is about 54 inches tall, they will fit and be able to ride. Minors must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian. All participants are required to wear a helmet with goggles (helmet and goggles provided to borrower during your rental period) and wear closed-toe shoes at all times while in the vehicle. Happy Trails Rental reserves the right to refuse service to anyone, even those meeting the qualifications above, based on our sole discretion.
Primitive camping is allowed anywhere within the boundaries of the Johnson Valley OHV Area, except on private property and established dirt roads. There are also a few vault bathrooms located on Anderson Dry Lake and on the north side of Cougar Buttes. Responsible camp fires are allowed, however do not burn wood with nails (pallets prohibited). The burning of potentially hazardous materials e.g. (but not limited to) gas, oil, plastic and magnesium is strictly prohibited. Please avoid building new fire rings. Federally protected desert tortoises are located in the OHV area so please be vigilant to stay away from these protected tortoises. Johnson Valley OHV is managed by Bureau of Land Management, Barstow Field Office, 2601 Barstow Road, Barstow, CA 92311, (760) 252-6000.
Self-Guided GPS Tour options are ideal for customers who want to use the aid of our sophisticated GPS technology and follow pre-planned route to exciting destinations. Self-Guided GPS Tours are perfect for the novice rider who wants to enjoy their riding experience at their own pace to allow time to stop and take in the beautiful scenery. Book directly on-line at our website by selecting the “Book Now” button.
Private Guided Tours are also available if you want to play follow-the-leader on your trail adventure and experience the Mojave desert in a unique way with expert trail guide. We offer both day tours and special Sunset and Stargazing tours. Call us for pricing and reservations.
No, unfortunately pets are not allowed in the Polaris vehicle during your rental period or in our staging area.
Rentals
Rental Agreement Specifics
There is a $250 cancellation fee for each vehicle if canceled up to 2 weeks prior to your rental date. Within 48 hours of the reservation, the cancellation fee becomes the full price of the reservation. If reservations are made over a Holiday week and/or weekend (i.e: Thanksgiving week, Christmas week, New Year’s week, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, King of Hammers week, etc.) the cancellation fee is the full price of reservation.
Yes, a $3,500 security deposit is required per vehicle. Included Protection with each rental the renter is responsible for the first $3,500 of any damage to the vehicle (including parts, labor, loss of use). All additional damage charges will be waived. Please acknowledge: the renter’s credit card that is used will be saved on file and WILL have a hold placed on their card (on the day of rental) for the security deposit in the amount of $3,500 per vehicle. Once the vehicle is returned and inspected for possible damage or abuse and no signs of damage or abuse are found, the credit hold will be immediately released. If there is any damage or abuse detected then Happy Trails Rental will keep the security deposit hold in place to allow a mechanic time to inspect and report all damages.
All rentals include a Damage Protection Plan. The renter is responsible for the first $3,500 of any damage to the vehicle (including parts, labor, loss of use, abusive or reckless wear and tear). All additional damage charges will be waived. The Accidental Damage Waiver is not insurance and covers only accidental damage to the vehicle. Careless and abusive driving is not permitted – absolutely NO donuts, jumping or excessive high speeds are allowed and strictly enforced.
Miscellaneous
Let Happy Trails help create that special event for corporate team building, bachelor or bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations – you name it we can help curate that unique experience you are seeking. We have access to fully equipped RV campers for overnight stays in the desert so you can enjoy the breathtaking starry nights and warm campfires.